Lois Spear

Working for a nearly $30 million transit organization that serves 3 million riders annually has its challenges. But considering the Minnesota Valley Transit Authority has only 16 employees, Lois Spear knows what it means to juggle responsibilities. You name it, she will tell you, she’s done it.

What’s the biggest turning point in your career and how did that lead you to what you are doing today

My first job was in cost accounting at Control Data. Then-CEO William Norris was committed to hiring women and minorities. My manager saw things in me that I never saw in myself. Just three years out of college, I was asked to do a financial presentation for the CEO and CFO. It was scary, but he prepared me well.

What are your job responsibilities today?

I’m involved in all finance accounting areas. I issue bonds to the public, do cash management work, budgeting and procurement. We contract all of our drivers and maintenance, about 150 to 200 employees. As a team we manage that contract.

What’s your proudest community achievement?

As a single parent with career responsibilities, I did things my son was involved in. I managed his soccer team and I was in charge of concessions for his chess team. I wanted to do things that would help my son and his teammates.

What’s the best advice you received from a mentor, and what’s your best advice to women entering your field?

The best advice I’ve received is don’t take criticism personally; learn from it. I would tell women entering the field the same thing, especially if you want to be a CFO. Learn different areas of finance and accounting. Whatever opportunity you are given, make the most of it.